Dear Editor,
On August 14th 1935, Social Security was signed
into law. Before Social Security, many retired Americans lived in poverty. For 83 years, Americans have retired with a greater
sense of financial security thanks to the Social Security system. Throughout
their working lives, Americans allocate part of their paycheck to the program,
knowing that when they reach retirement age they will have a steady income to
rely on.
Thanks to Social Security, more
Americans are able to age with dignity knowing they will have a reliable
monthly retirement income. The stock market may crash, a pension may be lost,
or a company may go bankrupt, but Social Security is constant. Social Security
adds greater economic stability to the lives of the nearly 95% of Mainers
65-plus who are current beneficiaries.
However, the future of Social Security is on the line and
will be a focus of the upcoming election. As one of the oldest states in the
nation, it is imperative to Maine’s retirees that Social Security continues. In
Maine, one-third of Social Security beneficiaries 65-plus have no other source
of income. With rising healthcare and utility costs, they can’t afford
cuts to their benefits.
Without Social Security, 47% of Mainers 65-plus would live
below the poverty line. It is important to know where candidates running for
congress stand on keeping Social Security strong for current and future
retirees. I urge you to ask your candidates where they stand on this important
issue, and pledge to vote this November.
Life is uncertain. While more people live longer, there is
no crystal ball for individuals to know how many years they will have in
retirement. Through Social Security, many more people can enjoy their
retirement years with the peace of mind that comes with financial security and
wellbeing.
Carl and Joyce Bucciantini
AARP Maine Outreach Volunteers
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